Scrap metal is always a valuable commodity. However, depending on factors like global market forces, local distribution, and emerging technologies, some materials can go up in value while the price of others drops. To better understand these fluctuations, here’s what may influence how much you can expect to get for your scrap metal.

Why Do Scrap Metal Rates Change?

1. Global Trade

Many large developing nations, such as China and India, important huge quantities of scrap metal for recycling. During prosperous economic times, these industries boom, creating more demand and higher prices. If they suffer a downturn, though, prices can drop all over the world.

2. The Location of the Scrapyard

Local forces also have an impact on the value of your scrap metal. As a general rule, scrap yards located near ports or major cities have lower transportation costs than processors situated further inland, which usually translates to higher prices.

3. The Time of Year

Many industries that rely on scrap metal, such as automobile manufacturing or construction, are seasonal. When these industries create higher demand, scrap metal prices usually rise.

4. New Technologies

Tech manufacturers are creating new technology all the time, some of which might require significant amounts of raw materials. If a popular new product increases demand for a particular metal, scrap prices typically rise.

5. The Quality of the Metal

The less processing a piece of metal needs before recycling, the more valuable it will be. Scrap yards will typically pay more for clean steel and copper without paint, corrosion, or other alloys attached.

As Rochester, NY’s only full-service scrap metal recycler, Metalico Rochester offers fair prices for a variety of materials. Their highly trained, friendly staff will even pick up scrap metal at your location, saving you the time and expense of transporting it yourself. Visit their website for more on their scrap metal recycling services, like them on Twitter for news and updates, or call (585) 436-0713 with any questions.